Many of us could benefit from losing a little weight. Besides the obvious advantage of looking and feeling better, weight loss can also have a very positive effect on our health. Recent studies have shown that just a ten percent weight loss can produce many important benefits, and can be more effective in treating certain condition than medication. For that reason, many start be setting the goal of losing ten percent of their body weight by skipping breakfast, eating healthy and getting in consistent exercise. Understanding the many health benefits can help you get motivated to lose weight.

One of the many benefits is a decreased risk of diabetes. This is particularly true for persons whose body has the tendency to store fat in the stomach area. This is related to a higher level of insulin-resistance. Fortunately, it’s easier to shed this kind of fat. Even people who already suffer from diabetes have seen a reversal in their condition once they get in better shape. Many doctors even report being able to suspend medication for patients that have experienced a moderate weight loss.

Weight loss is also related to a significantly reduced risk of cancer. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels are also better controlled after losing weight. Many patients who suffered from high blood pressure and high cholesterol have been able to get off all medication after losing just a small amount of weight. This obviously protects patients from any harmful side effects the medication may cause.

Heart disease is also related to obesity. Heart disease is one of the world’s top killers. Understanding the risk that heart disease creates should be a strong motivation for losing weight.

If you are experiencing knee pain, losing weight may help tremendously. Carrying around excess weight puts a lot of stress on your knees. Apart from pain relief, weight loss also contributes to more flexibility in most of your joints. This in turn, can make it easier to carry out your exercise routine, contributing to further weight loss.

Many report having more energy after losing weight. It’s much easier to stay active when you weigh less. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea often improve after losing weight. This also accounts for people feeling more refreshed and energetic. Some feel sharper mentally after experiencing weight loss. This may be related to more self-confidence and increased motivation.

To lose weight properly, you usually have to eat healthier. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides your body with the nutrients it needs to produce more energy and to fight off sickness. You will likely see that you get sick less often. Eating right, also, greatly reduces the risk of cancer. Start by making small changes in your eating habits, and it will start to become easier to make healthy choices.

All of these factors contribute to a higher quality of life. People with more energy, for example, enjoy their daily routine more. Also, if you have more energy, you are more likely to keep to a regular exercise routine, which will help you keep weight off, or even help you lose more. Simple activities like playing with your kids or going on vacation become more enjoyable when you have the energy and health to do it.

Remember, healthy weight loss is the result of good diet and exercise. It usually takes time. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. As long as you are losing weight, you are progressing. When it comes to your health, every little bit of weight loss counts. Some benefits are seen with just a two percent drop in body weight. So stay on track and remain positive.